Under the contract concluded in 2016, Pilatus is to provide two PC-21s to the Empire Test Pilots’ School (ETPS) based in Wiltshire, England.
Operated by QinetiQ, ETPS functions as a training centre for flight test engineers and test pilots, and enjoys an excellent reputation worldwide.
The two PC-21s have been produced with a fully integrated Flight Test Instrumentation capability for use by ETPS in training test pilots and flight test engineers.
The acquisition of the two PC-21s forms a key part of a transformation and modernisation project currently underway at ETPS.
Steve Wadey, CEO of QinetiQ commented:
“We are delighted to see a PC-21 operating in the UK for the first time. These aircraft will have a primary role in the training syllabus.
We are very pleased that, with Pilatus support, we are on track to deliver new training services for the benefit of our customers.”
The delivery of the first PC-21 is another key milestone in the process of developing and strengthening the relationship between Pilatus and QinetiQ.
Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus said:
“We are extremely proud that our PC-21s were selected for the prestigious Empire Test Pilots’ School. QinetiQ is the ninth member of the family of PC-21 operators.
We are confident that the many international test pilots who will fly in these PC-21 aircraft in UK skies will benefit from continuing investment in the development of this trainer aircraft.
With the PC-21, the best future test pilots will be trained with the world’s most capable training system.”
I used to visit Boscombe regularly.
A lot less happening these days sadly, once SAOEU moved.
“i before e except after c”
They say educational standards are rising!
‘Weird’
Under new EU transgender law you cannot give preference to an i over an e, particularly when having a pint.
A beautiful looking piece of kit and arguably the most advanced turboprop trainer now flying. It is capable of sustained low-level speeds over 320 knots and its hydraulically assisted ailerons and roll spoilers can produce fighter-like rates of roll in excess of 200 degrees per second. The RAAF is requipping with PC21s (replacing the PC9s) with the first 10 of 49 delivered. It heralds a new approach to pilot training becoming the RAAFs ab initio trainer by combining with advanced simulators to replace the venerable 210hp, piston-powered CT-4B, (with its fixed-gear and analogue dials) which lead to the PC9 for… Read more »
So the EPTS receives PC21 the RAF receives the T6.
Is they what they call joined up thinking? Surely it would have been cheaper to buy just one type?